Canada’s ‘most beautiful’ city is just 3 hours from Montreal and it’s a cozy fall paradise

If cobblestone streets, golden leaves, and cozy, European vibes sound like your dream autumn getaway, you don’t need to go far. Canada’s “most beautiful” city is the perfect place to spend a fall weekend — and it’s just a few hours from Montreal.

We recently asked readers on Narcity’s Facebook page to share the “most beautiful” places they’ve ever visited in Canada. While charming small towns like Banff and Jasper repeatedly got a shoutout, one city came up again and again: Quebec City.

“Those views are breathtaking, especially in the fall,” one person wrote.

Another added, “I’ve been all over Canada and nowhere beats [Quebec City] for me. Simply perfect.”

In fact, countless readers praised the Quebec capital for its unbeatable fall colours, historic architecture, and old-world feel that transports you to another country.

And it’s not just Narcity and MTL Blog readers that rate Quebec City so highly. It was previously ranked as one of Canada’s most beautiful cities by Culture Trip, which praised the Old Town’s cobblestone streets, grand cathedrals, and European charm.

Tucked along the St. Lawrence River, this historic city is like stepping into a painting once autumn rolls in. From late September through October, the city transforms into a cozy fall paradise, with golden trees lining the old streets and colourful leaves crunching underfoot.

Old Quebec, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the heart of it all. With its narrow lanes, grand stone buildings, and sidewalk cafes, it feels like a European village in the middle of Canada — no passport required!

Nearby, the iconic Fairmont Le Château Frontenac sits high above the city like a fairytale castle, and will make you feel like you’re soaking up the season in a Disney movie.

For those looking to take in even more of Quebec City’s natural beauty, the Île d’Orléans is just a bridge away and glows with a thousand colours during fall. This peaceful island is home to family-owned farms and quaint villages, where you can pick up fresh apples, cider, and maybe even a pumpkin or two.

Of course, no trip to Quebec City during the fall would be complete without indulging in the local seasonal flavours. From buttery pastries at charming French bakeries to maple lattes and hot apple cider, this city takes cozy comfort food to new levels.

Just 15 minutes outside the Old Town, Montmorency Falls puts on its own seasonal show. At over 80 metres high, the waterfall is beautiful at any time of year — but framed by fiery red and orange trees, it’s even better. You can walk across a suspension bridge above it or even zipline right over the falls.

And if you’re in the mood for even more fall charm, Île d’Orléans is just a short drive away. The island is filled with orchards, farm stands, and tiny villages, making it the ultimate cozy day trip from the city.

What’s more, you don’t even need a car to get there. Quebec City is a three-hour-ish train ride from Montreal, and tickets start around $50. Buses are also available, and even cheaper.

Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your trip.